Mahabaleshwar
The marvelous hill resort of Mahabaleshwar lies in the curvaceous mountain ranges of the western ghats of Maharashtra. Overlooking the Krishna and Koyna valleys the hill resort of Mahabaleshwar is located at an altitude of 1372 meters.



The name 'Mahabaleshwar' is derived from a temple of Lord Mahadev and three Sanskrit words, "Maha" (great), "Bal" (power) and "Ishwar" (God). But, some say that the name 'Mahabaleshwar', which simply means very mighty God, seems to have a mythological past.

Mahabaleshwar is famous for its scenic beauty and the splendid views of the valleys and the sea, which is quite visible in clear days pony rides on the lanes of Mahabaleshwar, are quite thrilling.

Prime Attractions of Mahabaleshwar

Venna Lake :
Venna Lake, which is 2.5 km long and has boating facilities. Close to the lake are strawberry stalls and people can even go for little horse riding.

Catholic Church :
A Visit to the old Roman Catholic Holy Cross church is worth a detour. Although the church is practically falling apart, its stained - glass window are still a sight to behold. This deserted church is now looked after by a Hindu family.



Babington Point :
Babington point, two kilometers from the bazaar offers a beautiful view of the Koyna valley and Chinaman's waterfall. Helen's point is about a kilometer's ride from here by the Blue Valley Road. It takes one into the midst of the valley and gives an enchanting view of tiny fields and neat little huts.

Wilson Point :
Wilson Point also called as Sunrise point. The highest point. ft above sea level. It is a vast plateau. There are three masonary round platforms to see the sunrise. You are advised to see sunrise from platform no:. You can see sunset also from this point.

Polo Ground :
Often been used as a helipad, also used for learning car driving.

Rosamond Rock :
The grandeur of its celestial beauty surpasses all the limits of descriptions.

Water Falls :
Chinamans, Lingmala & Dhobi waterfalls, flow in abundance only during the rainy season.

Pratapgad Fort :
This is 24 Kms. away from Mahabaleshwar. The fort was built in 1656 by Moropant Trimak Pingle under the command of the Maratha ruler shivaji. It was here that the mighty general of Bijapur, Afzal Khan was killed by Shivaji. The fort has a great view.